Robotics & Autonomous Systems Requirements

The Army's Robotics Requirements Division (RRD) at the Maneuver Capabilities Development and Integration Directorate (MCDID) faced a complex challenge: developing and validating JCIDS capability documents across an expanding portfolio of robotic and autonomous systems, each with unique operational requirements, technology readiness levels, and integration challenges.

From Small Unmanned Aerial Systems to Unattended Ground Sensors to Exoskeletons, the robotics portfolio spans dozens of programs at various stages of the Defense Acquisition System — all requiring rigorous capability-based assessment, requirements documentation, and coordination across Army Capability Managers, Battle Labs, and Development Engineering Centers.

JANUS provides Subject Matter Expertise to the Robotics Requirements Division across six key capability areas: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS), Robotic Appliqué and Enablers, Strategic Planning Support, and Operations Support.

Our team leads the full JCIDS lifecycle — from capability-based assessment and gap identification through requirements documentation and test coordination. JANUS performs operational analysis across 25+ emerging, current, and legacy robotic programs including CRS-I, SMET, SBS, SUAS, and Exoskeleton, aligning all documents to the approved Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) Strategy.

JANUS works closely with Army Capability Managers to identify capability gaps and assign robotic technologies to fill them. Our team coordinates testing across AEWE, Joint Warfighter Assessments, TRAC-WSMR, and ATEC — ensuring that every program receives rigorous evaluation. We co-develop the RAS Execution and Implementation Strategy, ensuring that the Army's robotics roadmap is aligned with modernization priorities and operational requirements.

JANUS developed the capability documents for the Common Robotic System (Individual) — the Army's first Program of Record for a backpackable robot — providing dismounted soldiers with increased standoff capability from hazardous threats. This landmark achievement validated the JCIDS process for autonomous systems and set the template for future robotics programs.

Across the portfolio, JANUS delivers approved and validated JCIDS capability documents that support the Defense Acquisition System and the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution system. Our efforts provide AFC with advanced military operations, increased capabilities, and improved soldier performance in combat environments.